What should I ask a real estate agent before hiring them?
Experience and Pay
Ask for examples of recent purchases in the area you want, not just general sales history. Find out whether they earn a commission from the seller side, the buyer side, or both. Commission structure affects whose interests they are weighing.
Get the agreement in writing before they start searching. It should list the scope of service, the pay structure, and how long the agreement lasts. Vague promises are a warning sign.
- Recent off-market or private deals nearby
- Who pays their commission and how it is calculated
- Whether they will sign a written buyer agreement
- How they find properties before they are listed
Your Role and Their Role
Some agents only forward leads, while others represent you through negotiation and closing. Clarify what they will do and what you still need to handle, such as lender contact or inspections. A clear division of work avoids missed deadlines.
Ask who will be your main contact and how quickly they respond. Reliable communication matters a lot when offers and deadlines move fast.
Check online reviews and ask for references from past clients, especially those who bought a property through the agent. Verify the agent's license with your state real estate commission. A short meeting in person can also show whether communication feels comfortable.
Common mistakes
- Hiring an agent based only on a friendly first call.
- Signing an exclusive agreement without reading the cancellation terms.
